winter dangers for dogs

Winter Dangers for Dogs: Keep Your Dog Safe

As winter sets in across the UK, it's important to be aware of the challenges and dangers this season can bring for your beloved dog. Cold weather, snow, ice, and the substances we use to combat these conditions can pose risks to our dogs. This guide explores the common winter dangers for dogs and provides tips on how to protect them, along with recommended products to make the season safer and more comfortable for your them.

Table of Contents

Is It Safe to Walk Your Dog in Low Temperatures?

While many dogs enjoy a romp in the snow, low temperatures can be dangerous for certain breeds and individuals. Dogs with thin coats, small breeds, puppies, and senior dogs are particularly prone to cold. Prolonged exposure to freezing temperatures can lead to hypothermia or frostbite.

How to Protect Your Dog:

  • Invest in a Warm Coat: If your dog is prone to feeling the chill, a warm, insulated coat can help keep them comfortable. Small breeds like Chihuahuas, Dachshunds, and Greyhounds, as well as elderly or sick dogs, will benefit greatly from this extra layer of protection.

  • Limit Walks in Extreme Weather: Pay attention to the temperature and avoid long walks when it’s bitterly cold or icy.

Can Grit and Salt Harm Your Dog?

In the UK, grit and salt are commonly used to de-ice roads and pavements. While essential for human safety, these substances can be harmful to dogs. Grit and salt can irritate and dry out paw pads, cause soreness, and even lead to chemical burns. If ingested, salt can cause gastrointestinal upset and, in severe cases, sodium poisoning.

How to Protect Your Dog:

  • Use a Paw Balm: Before heading out, apply a protective paw balm to create a barrier against grit and salt. After the walk, reapply to soothe and heal any irritation.

  • Clean Paws After Walks: Wash your dog’s paws with warm water and a gentle, natural shampoo to remove any residue of grit, salt, or chemicals.

  • Keep Towels Handy: Keep a towel in your car or by the front door to dry your dog’s paws and coat immediately after walks. This helps remove any harmful substances and prevents your dog from licking them off.

How Can Snow and Ice Affect Your Dog?

Snow and ice can be fun for dogs to play in, but they can also pose risks. Sharp ice can cut paws, and compacted snow can get stuck between paw pads, causing discomfort and even frostbite. Additionally, ice-covered paths can increase the risk of slips and injuries.

How to Protect Your Dog:

  • Trim Paw Fur: Keep the fur between your dog’s paw pads trimmed to reduce snow build-up.

  • Check Paws Regularly: Stop during your walk to check for ice or debris lodged between your dog’s pads.

  • Use Towels and Warm Water: After icy walks, clean and dry your dog’s paws thoroughly.

What Are the Risks of Antifreeze and Screenwash?

Antifreeze and screenwash are common winter products that can be extremely toxic to dogs. These substances contain ethylene glycol, which has a sweet taste that attracts animals but can cause kidney failure and death if ingested.

How to Protect Your Dog:

  • Prevent Access: Store antifreeze and screenwash securely and clean up any spills immediately.

  • Watch for Symptoms: If you suspect your dog has ingested antifreeze, contact your vet immediately. Symptoms can include vomiting, lethargy, and seizures.

What to Do on Bad Weather Days?

Winter weather doesn’t always cooperate with your dog’s need for exercise. Heavy rain, snowstorms, or icy conditions might make outdoor walks unsafe or unpleasant. However, dogs still need mental and physical stimulation to stay happy and healthy.

How to Keep Your Dog Occupied Indoors:

  • Use Enrichment Toys: Lickimats, treat-dispensing toys, and puzzle games can keep your dog entertained and mentally stimulated.

  • Interactive Play: Spend time playing fetch, tug-of-war, or hide-and-seek indoors.

  • Training Sessions: Use indoor time to teach your dog new tricks or reinforce good behavior. Short, focused training sessions can be both stimulating and rewarding.

How to Bathe Your Dog in Winter?

Winter walks often mean muddy paws and coats. Add in grit, salt, and wet weather, and your dog may need more frequent baths to stay clean and comfortable. However, overbathing can dry out their skin, especially in winter when indoor heating reduces humidity.

Bathing Tips:

  • Use a Natural Shampoo: Opt for a gentle, natural shampoo that cleans without stripping natural oils. This helps maintain your dog’s coat and skin health.

  • Dry Thoroughly: After a bath, use a towel to remove excess water and keep your dog warm. If your dog tolerates it, a low-heat hair dryer can help, but ensure it’s not too hot.

  • Schedule Baths Strategically: Avoid bathing your dog right before walks, as damp fur can make them feel colder.

How Can You Spot Signs of Cold Stress in Dogs?

Even with precautions, dogs can become too cold in winter weather. It’s important to recognize the signs of cold stress and take immediate action.

Signs to Watch For:

  • Shivering or trembling

  • Whining or appearing anxious

  • Curling up to conserve heat

  • Lethargy or weakness

What to Do:

  • Bring your dog indoors immediately.

  • Wrap them in a warm blanket and offer them a cozy spot to rest.

  • If symptoms persist or your dog shows signs of frostbite (e.g., pale, icy skin), contact your vet.

Winter Essentials for Your Dog

To keep your dog safe and comfortable this winter, consider stocking up on the following products:

  • Nose and Paw Balm: Essential for protecting and healing paws before and after walks.

  • Warm Coat: A must for small breeds, short-haired dogs, and those prone to the cold.

  • Natural Shampoo: Gentle enough for frequent use to clean away mud, salt, and grit.

  • Towels: Keep several on hand to dry your dog after outdoor adventures.

  • Enrichment Toys: Perfect for keeping your dog entertained during bad weather days.

Winter in the UK can be a magical time, but it also comes with unique challenges for dog owners. By taking steps to protect your dog from cold temperatures, grit, salt, and toxic substances, and by providing indoor enrichment on bad weather days, you can ensure your furry friend stays safe, healthy, and happy all season long. Equip yourself with the right products and knowledge, and both you and your dog will be ready to embrace the winter months together.

For any further help and advice please contact us on 01484 246420 and why not join our social media channels and online community on Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.

With Wags and Woofs,

Laura, Dolly & Reggie

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